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Highlights from the Old Continent

0/5

Duration

17days 16nights

Tour Type

Daily Tour

Group Size

Unlimited

Languages

___

Itinerary

Day 1:

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS: Arrival. Transfer to the hotel.

Reception. Transfer to hotel and free time. You will receive information about the start of the circuit during the afternoon, or you can check the informative panels in the hotel reception area.


IMPORTANT - IF YOU REQUESTED ADDITIONAL NIGHTS on arrival at the hotel you will have your booking made but the guide of your trip will normally not arrive until the start of the included activities. YOUR TIME BEFORE THIS MOMENT IS THEREFORE FREE. At your hotel they can help you with all the information you need.


NB: The schedules you will find in this itinerary are approximate. The guide, depending on the situation and in order to improve the development of the circuit, may adjust the schedules.

Day 2: Lisbon.-

Highlights- Comprehensive tour of Lisbon. Night transfer to Restauradores Square.


09:00h.- Start of our tour with a local guide. We visit traditional neighborhoods, which take in the Belem district, which is the birthplace of the great Portuguese navigators who sailed the oceans in the fifteen century. We shall look round the Monument to the Discoveries, Belem Tower and to the beautiful Jeronimos Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The afternoon is free so that you can explore this great city independently.




18:00h.-At the end of the afternoon, we include transportation to Restauradores Square , full of atmosphere with its bars and cafes from where you can take the "Elevador da Gloria" (not included) that brings you to the Upper district and its viewpoint of San Pedro with beautiful views over Lisbon and the Bairro Alto.
Return to hotel.

Day 3: Lisbon - Fatima - Madrid.-

Total distance: 695 km.
Scenery: Forests, small mountains, walled villages




Note: There is an hour difference between Spain and Portugal. When in Portugal is 11 hrs in Spain is 12 hrs.


07:30 hrs. - Lisboa – departure. We Travel to the north of Portugal.
09:15 hrs. - Fátima – Time to know this important Sanctuary.

10:30 hrs. - Fátima – Departure. We will continue on our way through the Green lands of the centre, passing into Spain and over the grasslands we cross the north of Extremadura region.
Lunch included en route in a regional food restaurant. Continuation to MADRID.


20.30 hrs.- Madrid, arrival. We include transportation to Plaza Mayor where you can enjoy at some typical taverns.


Day 4: Madrid.

Highlights: Guided tour and stroll through Retiro Park. Visit to Las Ventas Bullring (admission included) and transfer to Plaza del Oriente.


The day starts about 08.30 hrs with a comprehensive tour through the centre of Madrid including Paseo del Prado, Cibeles, Neptuno, the Gate of Alcalá, Plaza de Colón and Plaza Mayor.


Visit to Retiro Park, an oasis in the city centre, where we will see the lake and the Glass Palace. Admission to Las Ventas Bullring included. This is one of the most famous bullrings in the world where we will learn about the tradition of “corridas” in the Bullfighting Museum.


Enjoy the rest of the afternoon.



At sunset we provide a transfer to Plaza de Oriente, opposite the Royal Palace, an elegant and bustling area with many restaurants serving different exquisite cuisines (Indian, Middle Eastern, Muslim, Spanish, International) in which to enjoy a pleasant dinner. Return to hotel.


Day 5: Madrid - Zaragoza - Poblet - Montserrat - Barcelona.

Total distance: 640Km
Scenery: different landscapes on the Spanish plateau and fertile areas in Catalonia.


07:30h Madrid – Departure.
12:30h Zaragoza – Arrival at this city, which stands on the banks of the river Ebro. The guide will join the group to Basilica del Pilar. Free time to visit this impressive sanctuary and have lunch in the city centre.


14:00 hrs. -Zaragoza.- Departure on our way to Catalunia.
16:30 hrs. – Monastery of Poblet. Surrounded by walls in a beautiful setting, this is one of the best preserved medieval monasteries in the world (entrance included).


17:30 hrs. – Monastery of Poblet.- Departure.- We cross rich agricultural regions of central Catalonia. We go to the beautiful scenery where the Benedictine abbey is located. We climb to the summit in small rack train to admire the fantastic landscapes


18:45 hrs. -Monasterio de Montserrat.- Arrival.- Time to admire the views and visit the sanctuary where the Virgin of Montserrat, patron saint of Catalonia, is located (entrance not included).


19:45 hrs. -Montserrat.- road exit.
20:45 hrs. - Barcelona.- Arrival.

Note: In some cases, depending on the timetable of the rack railway, the ascent to Montserrat can be done in our coach.

Note: From November to March, due to the shorter duration of the days, we will neither be ascending nor stopping in Montserrat.


Day 6: Barcelona- Girona.-

Total distance covered: 115 km

NB: Sometimes this day’s accommodation may be given in Barcelona. In this case, a stop will be made on Wednesday in Gerona before going on our way to France.


In the morning at 09.00 hrs the tour starts with our guide or a local guide the tour of the city including the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, Paseo de Gracia, Diagonal, Sagrada Familia, Montjuic with its Olympic facilities, Plaza de España. A stop will be made for a few minutes near the Sagrada Familia to have a chance to see this monument. The visit ends in the Ramblas area for participants to walk around the historic centre and Gothic quarter. Free time for lunch and to continue strolling.


18.00hrs -Barcelona –Departure-. We travel towards the north of Catalonia.
19.30 hrs - GIRONA – Arrival in this small Catalan capital with its very beautiful historic centre where the cathedral stands out with its great staircase. The city is also magnificently lit up and has many small restaurants.


NB: If your hotel should be in the outskirts of Gerona, we will take to the centre by bus to leave you there for time before going to the hotel.



Day 7: Girona- Arles- Carrieres de Lumiere- Chambery.-

Total distance: 650 km

Scenery: Pleasant green and Mediterranean landscapes, mountain passes in the Pyrenees and at the end of the day.
NB: Please have your passport in hand, as we are going into France and sometimes there are border checks requiring documentation.


08.00 hrs - Girona –Departure-; we going to France and cross the region of Provence.
12.00 hrs -ARLES -Arrival-. Time in this city, a small World Heritage city where we will remember Van Gogh, and where we can see its Roman theatre and small Romanesque churches. Time for a stroll and to grab lunch.


14:30 hrs - Arles –Departure to continue to enjoy Provence-.
15.15 hrs- Carrières de Lumière. Entrance included to an impressive show of art, image and sound underground, in these more than 20 millions year former quarries.


16.30 hrs.- Carrières de Lumières - Departure.
20.30 hrs- Chambery- arrival and accommodation.


Note: If, due to crowds or a change of programme, it is not possible to obtain tickets for the Carrieres de Lumière show, a transfer to the Roman aqueduct at the Pont du Gard will be provided as an alternative.

Day 8: Chambery- Geneva- Gruyere- Chillon- Leysin.-

Total distance covered: 290 km
Scenery: Very beautiful scenery on Lake Leman. Great lakes, tall snow-covered summits in the distance. In the afternoon, we have a trip through the mountains passing through beautiful villages with wooden houses.
NB: Please have your passport in hand, as we are going into Switzerland and sometimes there are border controls asking for documentation.


08.00 hrs.- Chambery- A stroll through this charming capital of Savoy, medieval style city with beautiful historic center and great castle.


09.00 hrs.- Chambery- Departure to Switzerland.
10.30 hrs.- Geneva –Arrival. - The capital of the French-speaking region of Switzerland. A city on Lake Leman which houses the European United Nations headquarters, the offices of the International Labour Organisation, of the Red Cross and numerous other headquarters of international entities. With our guide, we will go to the Palace of Nations (the United Nations headquarters in Europe) and the pretty English Garden with its flower clock, and can admire the “Jet d´Eau”, the tallest fountain in Europe.


12:00 hrs - Geneva-. Our road follows Lake Leman amidst magnificent vineyard scenery (an area declared UNESCO world Heritage).
13.30 hrs- Gruyere. – The area where the famous cheese is produced, Gruyere is a very picturesque walled touristic village. Time for lunch. Near Gruyere there are some of the main Swiss chocolate manufacturers (NESTLÉ among others), and we visit the Cailler factory, with a tasting included!


16.00 hrs - Gruyere. Departure amidst mountains and very picturesque Swiss villages.
16.45 hrs - Chillon Castle, arrival at this fantastic medieval castle built on the waters of the lake. Tickets included.


17.45 hrs - Chillon Castle –Departure-. Magnificent mountain scenery, we cross areas with scenic villages with wooden architecture.
16.30 hrs - Leysin, arrival in this beautiful holiday village with spectacular views of the Rhône plain and Mont Blanc, known for its winter sports resort or its hiking possibilities. Dinner included.

Day 9: Leysin- Glacier 3000- Interlaken- Lucerne- Zurich.-

Total distance covered: 230 km

Scenery: Probably the most spectacular part of our route in the Alps; High summits where snow remains all year round; Lakes.
Note: Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes. It is also recommended some waterproof clothing (especially for the waterfalls´ visit). Please also be advised to use sun protection during the sunny days while visiting the high mountains.
Notes: Due to weather conditions (strong wind) or maintenance the cable car may not operate on certain dates. The ascent is not authorized for children under 2 years old

08.30 hrs.- Leysin -Departure-. High mountain landscapes of great beauty surround us and you will be able to see ice and snow during most of the year.
09.00 hrs.- We will take the cable car up to the Glacier 3000 mountain station, one of the most spectacular points in Switzerland where, from its terraces, you will be able to see different panoramic views of the alpine landscapes. You can walk on the suspension bridge over the gap between two mountain peaks, enter the Ice Cathedral or "play" in the Fun Park.


11.30 hrs- Departure to Interlaken through beautiful mountain and lake scenery.
13.30 hrs - Interlaken, a small town situated between two lakes and dominated by an impressive mountain scenery. Time for lunch.


15.00 hrs - Interlaken - departure.
16.15 hrs- Lucerne –Arrival-. This is one of the most beautiful cities of Switzerland. Time to stroll over its wooden bridges crossing the lake.


18.00 hrs.- Lucerne -departure-.
19.00 hrs.- - Zurich –Arrival-. We will take a stroll in the largest city in Switzerland and its economic centre, before going to a hotel.

Day 10: Zurich- Bern- Paris.-

Total distance: 720 km
Scenery: Lakes and mountains in Switzerland. Note: We enter France, remember to have your passport ready.


07.30 h. - Zurich – Departure.
09:00 h. – Bern – Arrival-. Free time in the Swiss capital which has an attractive historical centre with the appearance of a “large village”. We will visit the Federal Council Square, the Cathedral and the Clock Tower, and see the city’s statues and fountains.


12.00 h. - Bern - Departure-. View of Neuchatel Lake. We cross the Free Country amidst beautiful scenery. After crossing the French border we will stop for lunch in a service area.
21.00 h. -Paris - Arrival.

Day 11: Paris.-

TODAY’S HIGHLIGHTS: Transfer to Versailles Palace. Funicular ride included to Montmartre district. City tour in Paris.

Early in the morning, we will leave for Versailles, the immense palace of the kings of France (entrance not included). After that, we will return to Paris at lunch time where we provide a transfer to the Montmartre dis­trict. We will ascend by funicular to the hill and admire the spectacular view of Paris from the top. This neighbourhood is known for its painters, artists, and its cab­arets… Sit down for lunch and enjoy a magical atmosphere. Then, a scenic guided tour to discover the history, main boulevards and the breathtaking monuments of Paris will take place. Return to hotel. At the end of this busy day, the guide will offer the optional visit to a typical Cabaret or a variety show such as the Moulin Rouge or the Paradis Latin.


Note: Due to the tourism complexity of Paris, the order of services offered in the city may vary.

Day 12: Paris - Rouen.-

Total Distance: 140 km

Scenery: Extensive plains of northen France. Rouen.


08.30 hrs.- We go to the centre of Paris, starting by the Eiffel Tower area. You will have the opportunity to climb up to the second floor of this remarkable metal monument (ticket included). Then, we enjoy a boat cruise along the River Seine, which divides the north of Paris from the south. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore as you choose.


Note: Sometimes queues to climb the Eiffel Tower are long. For organizational reasons, if deemed appropriate, the climb can be made at a different moment of the day.


17.00 hrs.- Paris –we will leave for Rouen.-
19.15 hrs.- Rouen –Arrival to this beautiful city museum with its houses with half-timbered walls, narrow streets and gothic churches. Accommodation in the city.








Day 13: Rouen - Canterbury - London.-

Total Distance: 360 Km.
Scenery: interesting ferry crossing, green hills in England. Stroll alongside Tower Bridge.
Note: Remember to have your Passport ready, you will need it to cross the British border. -We recommend wearing warm clothing during the crossing. -It is necessary to set your watch back one hour when entering the UK. - The UK currency is the Pound; we recommend you change your currency on the ferry.


Rouen. After breakfast, we have free time to take a stroll in the centre of Rouen to admire its magnificent cathedral and photograph the ancient streets of the historic centre (transfer at 08.15 hrs if the hotel is not located near the centre).


10.00 hrs- Rouen. Departure, we travel to the north of France.


13.00 h. Arrival to the port of Calais where we take the ferry to the UK followed by customs and border formalities. The ferry crossing takes one hour and a half. The ferry is modern and equipped with all commodities (restaurants, bars, areas in which to relax, games rooms, foreign exchange facilitles, shops...).


14.45 h. (15.45 hrs in France): Dover –On arrival, we disembark and then set out for Canterbury.
15.30 hrs- Canterbury- arrival. Free time to stroll around the religious capital of England with a very attractive historic centre.


17.00 hrs- Continuation to London.
18:30 h. London- On arrival in London, before going to the hotel, there will be time around Tower Bridge to see it lip up, to see the modern buildings of the city and have dinner in one of the restaurants of the area.


20.30 hrs- Transfer to the hotel.

Day 14: London.

Highlights: Guided tour, changing of the guards. Transfer to Soho.


In the early morning, comprehensive tour with local guide, lasting two hours and a half. We will see the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Trafalgar Sq., Picadilly Sqare, Oxford Street, Tower of London, Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace and the famous Changing of the Guard (depending on the time of year).


Afternoon at leisure.
18.30 h. In the evening, a stroll through Leicester Square, China Town and Soho, with its atmosphere, its theaters and its entertainment. Sit down for dinner at your preferred restaurant (Indian, Chinese, Thai, in­ternational, and so on) in the lively district. Return to hotel.


Day 15: London - Colchester - Ferry.-

Total road distance: 170 km
Scenery: Pleasant hill scenery. Ferry crossing.
Notes: Remember to have your Passport ready, you may need it to leave the UK. -When entering in the Netherlands set your watch forward one hour (if it’s 11 ‘clock in London, it will be 12 o’clock in the Netherlands).

After breakfast, we will go to the British Museum, one of the main and oldest museums in the world where we can see relics from cultures all around the globe. Free time.


At lunch time, we provide transfer to Camden, a district famous for having one of the most varied and extravagant street markets in London where we can see relics from cultures all around the globe. Free time for lunch.


16.00 hrs- Departure.
18.45 hrs- Colchester- arrival the city known as the most ancient of England. Time to stroll.
20.45 hrs- Colchester. Departure, we will leave to Harwich.


21.30 hrs- Harwich- We will board a modern ferry with all the conditions of a cruise in Harwich, and take a night voyage in cabins with bathroom. Departure of the ferry scheduled at 23.00h. Night crossing to Netherlands


Important note: Due to the fact that the ferry used has a limited number of cabins, sometimes the stage may undergo modifications and it might go from London to Amsterdam either by a day ferry (leaving around 17.00 hrs and spending the night in Antwerp with a short stroll through the city) or, for reservations made less in advance, by train or plane to Amsterdam, including the transfers.

Day 16: Ferry- Volendam - Amsterdam.

Total road distance: 130 km
Scenery: Dutch landscapes, plains, canals, mills. Picturesque typical village of Volendam. Visit to Amsterdam. Transfer to Rembrandtplein .


08.30 hrs.- Hoek Van Holland- Arrival and continuation of route.
10.00 hrs.- Volendam – We arrive in this charming fisherman’s village on the Southern Sea.
12.00 hrs.- Volendam – We head to Amsterdam.


12.30 hrs.- Amsterdam – Arrival, time for lunch and comprehensive tour with a local guide, visiting the canal bridges, cathedral and the Royal Palace, the Flower Market and the Museum Quarter. Visit to a diamond-cutting workshop.

At night time for dinner in Rembrandplein with its many restaurants from all corners of the world and near the red light district, with its liberal values. It is very likely that you will have heard about this neighborhood. Return to hotel.



Day 17:

After breakfast, end of our services.

Note: Remember that check-out time is usually at 10.00 hrs. In most cases, you can leave your luggage at the hotel reception at check-out time so you can enjoy the city and pick it up at the time you require that same day. If you need more time to use your room, please consider booking an additional night at the end of your tour.

Included/Excluded

  • Sharm Travels General Services: Travel by bus with English speaking guide, basic travel insurance, hotel and breakfast buffet.
  • Includes arrival transfer
  • City tour in: LISBON, MADRID, BARCELONA, PARIS, LONDON, AMSTERDAM
  • Excursion: Versailles in Paris (entrance not included)
  • Boat: River Seine in Paris
  • Evening transfer: Restauradores Square in Lisbon, Plaza de Oriente in Madrid , Tower Bridge in London , Leicester/ Soho area in London , Rembrandtplein in Amsterdam
  • Transfer: Montmartre District in Paris, Versailles Palace in Paris (entrance not included), Camden district in London
  • Ticket admission: Las Ventas bullring in Madrid, Poblet Monastery , 2nd Floor Eiffel Tower in Paris , Diamond Cutting Workshop in Amsterdam
  • Ferry: Calais Fr to Dover UK, Harwich (UK) to Hoek Van Holland (NL)
  • Funicular: To Montmartre district in Paris
  • 1 Lunch Included in: FATIMA
  • 1 Dinner Included in: LEYSIN
  • Entrance Fees Any extras not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Tipping.

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